by Emma Smith 5 years ago Stress is a huge factor in our lives whether we realize it or not. Stress has been shown to have tremendous effects on the way that our bodies behave and if we leave stress unchecked, it can lead to a number of negative health effects down the line.
That is why it is so important to manage your stress levels and control it. You can’t eliminate stress – human beings will be stressed – but limiting it and not letting it dominate your life is of the greatest importance. Use these tips to help manage your stress and live a better, healthier lifestyle.
Get in a Workout
This may come as a surprise but it has been proven that getting in a good workout is a way to relax both your body and mind. Exercise helps to get out that pent up energy and stress, releasing it through physical exertion. Plus, it leaves you in a better mood, helping to create serotonin which helps regulate your mood.
Even a brisk walk can help you release that pent up stress and anxiety, leaving you feeling better overall and better equipped to deal with whatever is troubling you. Find the time to fit exercising into your schedule and see the effect is has on your stress levels.
Breathe Deeply
This one may sound a bit hokey and simplistic, but stopping to take a few deep breaths can help slow your heart rate down and reduce some of the stress that you may be feeling. Closing your eyes and imaging yourself in a relaxing place, while breathing deeply, can help to regulate your mood and reduce that stress.
Take Time for Hobbies
Life can’t always be about work; you have to take time out to do things that you enjoy and make you feel good. Plus, hobbies act as a great way to escape from the stress in your life. You don’t have to immerse yourself in something for hours on end; even 15 to 20 minutes per day can do the trick.
Try things like knitting, reading, art work, playing golf, doing puzzles, watching a movie, or a number of different activities that will take your mind away from the stressful things in life and put a focus on enjoying your activities. This will help to regulate the stress not only in the moment but throughout your life.